07.19.2017 Island Opportunities

July 19, 2017

When season is over, it's time for the locals to get out and enjoy the island's food and entertainment scene. It can be hard to get around during season, but once traffic lightens - even with construction - our islanders have lots of delicious or fun choices to make.

From now through September, the Observer will feature a restaurant, bar or business on Fort Myers Beach or San Carlos Island that our readers might like to get out and enjoy.

This week: Captain Bubby's IsLAND Tours

Article Photos

Young pirates check out the next clue to finding their treasure on a Captain Bubby's scavenger hunt. Photo provided.

If an adventure is what you're looking for this summer, why not take the family on a pirate scavenger hunt for loot?

Captain Bubby's concierge tours will pick you up from where ever you are - home or hotel - for their land or sea tours. Land tours are conducted via an eight-passenger van, meaning you can learn about the history of downtown Fort Myers or drive through the Sanibel preserves in air conditioned comfort. A rainy day doesn't stop this bus.

But Bubby Howell, the company owner, offers up another fun idea: pre-planned scavenger hunts. With a master naturalist and a local area expert at the helm, this trip is both fun an educational for all ages.

"It's a great family tour," she said. "Everyone gets a pirate name, and gear, like an eye patch, and a treasure map."

Howell sets the course beforehand to ensure an authentic experience. Clues on the map lead you around the beach, and with each clue comes a little bit of education about local wildlife, too.

"It's a sneaky way to teach kids about nature, and it's fun," Howell said.

In the end, the "pirates" make their way to the treasure chest, which is filled with goodies.

Scavenger hunts last about three hours on average, with prices beginning at $50 for children and $105 for adults. The trips can be customized and tailored to fit a group's needs. It's not just for kids - Howell said she gets business groups in for team-building days, too. Trips can be booked any day of the week.

"We live in such a unique, special area," Howell said. "I love teaching people how special it is. The more you know, the more you take care of it, and that's important to pass on to the kids."